Marine Corps Martial Arts Tan Belt - Hook Punch

This section focuses on tan belt techniques used by the Marine Corps martial arts program. This page examines how to do a hook punch in the Marine Corps martial arts program. To learn about other martial arts punches, please visit the main Punches & Hand Strikes section. Information from Public Domain Document, MCRP 3-02B, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP).

For more Marine Corps techniques, please visit the main Marine Corps Martial Arts Program section.

Hook

The hook is a powerful punch that is executed close in and is usually preceded by a preparatorystrike.

Striking Surface

The striking surface is the first two knuckles of the fist.

Target Areas of the Body

When delivered to the chin or jaw, the hook can render an aggressor unconscious or cause extensive damage to the neck. When delivered to the body it can cause pain, shortness of breath, and even break ribs.

Technique

~ Assume the basic warrior stance.
~ Rotate your rear fist, this will parallel your fist and forearm to the deck.
~ Power is generated from side to side by driving with your legs while rotating your hips and shoulders. Your body’s rotation drives the fist through your primary target area making contact with the first two knuckles of the fist as your lead hand stays up and in place to protect your head.
~ Rapidly retract your hand and return to the basic warrior stance.
~ A common mistake is to extend the fist all the way out in an effort to get all of the power from the arm that is executing the punch, which is incorrect. The power derives from the use of the legs and rotation of the upper body.

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References

1. Information from Public Domain Document, MCRP 3-02B, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP), http://www.marines.mil/News/Publications/ELECTRONICLIBRARY.aspx, Added - 02/18/15